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Philosophy 312: Oriental Philosophy
The Principle of Charity
The
Principle of Charity is a presumption often made in
philosophy whereby preconceptions about an argument, a topic, or a belief
are set aside in the attempt to gain new understanding.
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While suspending our own beliefs, we seek a
sympathetic understanding of the new idea or ideas.
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We assume for the moment the new ideas are true even
though our initial reaction is to disagree; we seek to tolerate
ambiguity for the larger aim of understanding ideas which might prove
useful and helpful..
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Emphasis is placed on seeking to understand rather
than on seeking contradictions or difficulties..
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We seek to understand the ideas in their most
persuasive form and actively attempt to resolve contradictions.
If more than one view is presented, we choose the one that appears the
most cogent.
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The principle of charity is a methodological principle--ideas
can be critiqued after an adequate understanding is achieved.
The original presumption of setting aside our own beliefs and assuming
the new ideas are true is only a provisional presumption.
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Hence, we should listen and read in the beginning as
if we had no personal attitudes. We should seek to be open and
receptive. This attitude, if maintained, frees the
conditioned mind and enables it to absorb and understand the new.
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In essence, we just start with a simple desire to get
the point.
Check your understanding
with a Quiz on The Principle of Charity.
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